Why is Proper Drainage is Essential for Southern Minnesota Farmland?
Mitchell Kruger
Minnesota Land Specialist
You may be wondering what the importance of drainage tile in southern Minnesota farmland is. This past year, we saw just how critical a well-designed drainage system really is. In only one month, our region was hit with over 30 inches of rain. With flat topography and clay-rich, loamy soils, natural drainage simply couldn’t keep up — and the result was widespread crop loss across the area.
Drainage tile is not just helpful — it’s absolutely vital in this part of the state.
Without it, excess water can lead to:
- Soil erosion
- Nutrient loss
- Delayed planting and harvest
- Higher fuel costs from wet field conditions
- Oxygen-deprived crop roots
- Severe ponding and waterlogging
We saw every one of those issues in full force during the 2024 season.
How Does Drainage Directly Impact Yields?
Proper tile drainage lowers the water table, giving roots the oxygen they need to grow deep and strong. That means healthier plants, better nutrient uptake, and improved stand consistency. Tiled fields also dry out faster, allowing farmers to stay on schedule for planting and harvest — which is critical, especially for crops like corn and soybeans, where even a one-week delay can reduce yield potential.
In Southern Minnesota, where unpredictable weather and heavy soils are the norm, drainage isn’t optional — it’s essential. A quality tile system protects your land, boosts your yields, and supports long-term success.
If you’re thinking about drainage — or buying or selling land in this region — I’d be glad to talk more.
Do you want to learn more?
If you’re considering buying, selling, or managing land, reach out to a local High Point Land Company Agent. For more questions visit our YouTube Knowledge Center.
Hi, I’m Mitchell Kruger, your Southern Minnesota Land Specialist with High Point Land Company. I work with landowners and farmers from west of Austin in Freeborn County to Fairmont in Martin County, right along the I-90 corridor. Growing up in Southeast Minnesota on a farm just outside of Plainview; Mitchell spent a lot of time helping out on the family farm, and enjoying the many aspects that country life had to offer. Mitchell started working for a drainage company as a Staker/Project Designer and spent a fair amount of time in the western part of the state. Now Mitchell is turning these experiences and knowledge he’s gathered into a career in real estate. Mitchell is excited for the opportunity to meet and work with everyone! If you have any questions, feel free to give Mitchell a call at 507-259-8451 or email Mitchell@highpointlandcompany.com